New Nissan X-TRAIL here later this year

NISSAN has shared images and early details of its all-new X-TRAIL SUV which it says is expected in local showrooms before the end of the year. 

The X-TRAIL, which shares its CMF-CD underpinnings with the latest Mitsubishi Outlander, will offer new safety equipment, improved off-road capability – courtesy of a new Intelligent 4x4 system that offers up to five distinct drive modes – a host of new technology features, and a “powerful” new exterior design, Nissan says.

“The Nissan X-TRAIL has been a family favourite in Australia for more than 20 years, with more than 270,000 vehicles sold since its launch here in 2001,” Nissan Australia managing director Adam Paterson said.

“That’s an impressive legacy to protect, and it’s one we take very seriously. Which is why the all-new X-TRAIL introduces a bold new look, incredible technology and safety features, and even more capability, all while still sticking true to its heritage of unlocking fun and adventure for Australian families,” he added.

Nissan says the exterior of its fourth generation X-TRAIL features new LED headlights, a ‘floating’ roofline, and an evolved version of its V-Motion grille. The mid-size SUV will also be available with an optional two-tone paint scheme for the first time.

Inside, the more practical cabin offers easy-to-use technology and more premium materials, Nissan says. The X-TRAIL scores the Yokohama-based company’s latest infotainment array with full-colour touchscreen operation, voice control, and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity via an 8.0- or 9.0-inch array (depending on model grade).

The flagship Ti-L model is also expected to receive a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, quilted semi-aniline leather upholstery, and heated rear seats.

Available in China since April last year (where it is sold as the Nissan Rogue), the X-TRAIL will offer upgraded safety and driver assistance technologies when it lands in local showrooms towards the end of the year. 

Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility safety suite and ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving system is said to provide “an extra layer of safety” and joins head-up display and “a comprehensive suite of active safety intervention systems” likely to be divulged closer to the model’s launch.

In a return to its roots, the X-TRAIL also promises better off-road ability than before with a revised Intelligent 4x4 system with direct coupling offering faster reactions and a “seamless transfer of power between axles”, Nissan added. Hill Descent Control is also included.

While Nissan is yet to reveal powertrain offerings for its fourth-generation X-TRAIL, we note the model is offered with the choice of a 150kW/305Nm 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol or 140kW/244Nm 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine in other markets. 

Both units are paired exclusively to Nissan’s X-TRONIC continuously variable transmission (CVT) which now offers a 17 per cent broader ratio span than the outgoing model.

The new Nissan X-TRAIL measures 4681mm in length (-9mm), 1840mm in width (+20mm), 1730mm in height (-10mm) and rides on a 2706mm wheelbase (+1mm).

Currently priced from $30,665 plus on-road costs, the X-TRAIL vies in the highly competitive Medium SUV under $60k segment alongside popular rivals like the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4.

Despite its age, the current-generation X-TRAIL is still the sixth best-seller in its category with year-to-date sales of 900 units. The segment is currently topped by the Mazda CX-5 (3213 units) ahead of the Subaru Forester (1480), Toyota RAV4 (1425), Mitsubishi Outlander (1352), and Kia Sportage (1110).

The X-TRAIL will launch in Australia towards the end of 2022 with pricing and more detailed specification will be revealed closer to its official launch.